In the labyrinthine self-built neighborhood of San Luis, Bogotá, where concrete and brick often clash with the ephemeral nature of informal urban life, a new structure is taking root. Alsar-Atelier, in collaboration with Oscar Zamora and with the support of NEACOL, has designed a low-tech hydroponic module that transcends simple agricultural innovation, becoming a catalyst for community empowerment and sustainable development.
This project is not born in a vacuum. It is deeply embedded in the seven-year collaborative efforts of local leaders like Cesar Salomón and organizations like Fondacio Altos del Cabo, who have been tirelessly working to improve the lives of San Luis residents. Addressing the stark realities of obesity and diabetes, prevalent in these dense urban environments, the hydroponic module offers a tangible solution: access to healthy, locally grown food.
Hydroponics, with its promise of vertical cultivation, water efficiency, and climate-independent growth, is a natural fit for the densely populated, often resource-constrained context of self-built cities. But Alsar-Atelier’s approach goes beyond simply introducing a new farming technique. They have crafted a structure that embodies the very spirit of its context: adaptable, resourceful, and community-driven.
The module’s design is a testament to the power of repurposing. At its core lies an industrial shelving system, a symbol of consumerism transformed into a tool for social good. This choice is not merely pragmatic; it’s a deliberate subversion of typical construction practices. In a place where permanence often clashes with the transient realities of occupation and legality, the module offers a lightweight, semi-permanent solution.
The brilliance of this design lies in its inherent flexibility. Recognizing the potential need for relocation or dismantling, the structure is conceived as a modular system. Its components can be easily disassembled and repurposed, minimizing waste and allowing for adaptation to new locations. This adaptability is crucial in a context where change is the only constant.
Beyond its physical form, the hydroponic module functions as an “analog school.” It serves as a hub for knowledge sharing, supporting the Centro Altos del Cabo in delivering hydroponic farming workshops to the community. This educational component empowers residents to cultivate their own food, fostering self-sufficiency and promoting sustainable water use. The module also provides a space for collective post-harvest activities, strengthening community bonds and promoting self-management practices.
The project’s connection to the local ecosystem is equally vital. Integrating with urban gardening workshops and utilizing the Chapinero seed bank, which preserves 23 native and heirloom species, ensures that the module contributes to the preservation of local biodiversity. This thoughtful integration underscores the project’s commitment to holistic sustainability.
Alsar-Atelier’s hydroponic module is more than just a structure; it’s a living testament to the power of tactical, sustainable, and low-cost architecture. It demonstrates how design can address pressing social and environmental challenges in self-built environments, fostering resilience and empowering communities to shape their own futures. In San Luis, a simple shelving system has been transformed into a symbol of hope, proving that even in the most challenging contexts, innovation and community spirit can cultivate a brighter future.